1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano (228 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano (346 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3210 mm |
